My Turn: Raising money to replace dying or removed trees

The line between 17th and 21st Streets is commonly known as the Market Street Tree Canopy - the "Canopy" is in trouble.

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - We have a few iconic images around here that are synonymous with Wilmington. The Battleship, Bellamy Mansion, Thalian Hall, and the cranes at the State Port, all come to mind. But I'd also like include on that list the trees that line the way as you enter Wilmington on Market Street.

The line between 17th and 21st Streets is commonly known as the Market Street Tree Canopy - the "Canopy" is in trouble.

Just in the last few months, we showed you an accident along Market Street where a tree branch fell onto a moving car. Amazingly, the driver walked away unscathed. That's just an example of what is taking place. Some of these trees are dying, and they are being removed without being replaced.

So the time for action is now. It's going to cost money and it's going to take a community effort. The Historic Wilmington Foundation has a plan. It is willing to match donations up to $2,500 from those who are willing to help.

The foundation is holding a fundraiser August 15 at the Bellamy Mansion from 5:30-7:30 p.m. All proceeds from this event go towards the reforestation of the Market Street Tree Canopy. Suggested donation of $10. Each donor will entered in a raffle for a piece of fine art photography from Melissa Wilgis. Please RSVP to trivett@historicwilmington.org to attend this event or call 762-2511.

Let's hope this effort by the Historic Wilmington Foundation plants the seeds that will cause you to want to get involved to keep the beauty of the "Canopy" in place for generations to come.

That's my turn. Now it's your turn. To comment on this segment, or anything else, email me at yourturn@wect.com.